Nature Connectedness

This free MOOC (Massive Open Online Course) from the University of Derby provides an opportunity for you to learn about Nature Connectedness and the value of having a strong relationship with nature.

Outline of Activity

There's no wellbeing without nature's wellbeing. Everyone is at risk from the loss of habitats and a warming planet. The climate emergency, wildlife emergency and pandemic show that the existing relationship between people and the rest of nature is broken.

To fix this we need a new relationship with nature. A new relationship with nature can also help tackle the crisis in mental health. The relationship between people and the rest of nature, 'Nature Connectedness', is grounded in scientific study, is measurable and accepted internationally.

Research evidence shows that improved nature connectedness benefits human wellbeing and pro-environmental behaviours. However, nature connectedness in the UK is well below levels required for pro-environmental attitudes and behaviours. This course covers:

What is nature connectedness?
Why nature connectedness matters: People
Why nature connectedness matters: Nature
Improving nature connectedness: Noticing
Improving nature connectedness: The pathways framework
Pathways Case Studies
Using the pathways and evaluation
Scaling up – societal application of the pathways

Endorsed by Natural England

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Learning Outcomes

Complete this free online course with the University of Derby to develop:

An understanding of the psychological construct of nature connectedness
An understanding of why nature connectedness matters for human and nature’s wellbeing
An understanding of how to improve nature connectedness

Assessment Details

Made up of eight short units, the course encourages you to actively consider our relationships with nature, for our own well-being as well as for the longer-term benefit of nature and the natural world.

During the course, you will look at why nature connectedness matters and how it can be improved. You’ll learn about our Pathways to Nature Connectedness Framework and will look at how you can use this framework to positively impact our connections with nature, pro-nature and environmental behaviours and our overall well-being.

Once you have completed this MOOC, please download the certificate and submit it by clicking this link